Asplenium scolopendrium

Also called Spleenwort

AKA Phyllitis scolopendrium, Scolopendrium vulgare
Low, upward-growing clumps of glossy narrow strap-like leathery leaves
Edges are often wavy
On leaf undersides, spores darken with age in a herring-bone format
Evergreen fronds remain lush throughout the winter
Black, wiry, shallow roots

ZONE:
3

COLOUR:
Non-flowering

HEIGHT:
30-40 cm

SPREAD:
30-45 cm

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Growing and Maintenance Tips:

Asplenium scolopendrium are best grown in shaded, cool sites. Sometimes found growing naturally in the crevices of limestone rocks, but generally smaller in size. Ideal conditions are a moist, well-drained limestone soil with lots of leaf compost. Evergreen foliage should remain through the winter. Once the new fronds appear in the spring, the old foliage can be removed.

Additional Notes about Hart's Tongue Fern:

Native to Ontario

The fronds of this fern serve as a food source for specialist insects including the Leaf-Mining fly (Chromatomyia scolopendri) and micromoths (Psychoides filicivora and Psychoides verhuella) which might not even be native. The American variety (Asplenium scolopendrium var. americanum) is listed as, 'Of Special Concern' under the federal Species at Risk Act in Canada, and specifically Ontario.